I couldn't always find the answers I needed, though, which points out one area where PreSonus could improve things: documentation.
I figured most stuff out on my own, and only had to hit the online manual a few times. Common functions were easy to access, and the real geeky stuff was only a few clicks away. I found its interface to be quite intuitive and logical, even as a new user. With software as deep as Studio One 3, putting a friendly face on its power is always a challenge. Bread-and-butter effects like EQ and compression are similarly excellent. The Open Air impulse response reverb is great, Red Light District is a flexible distortion/overdrive effect, and Bitcrusher is sound-mangling fun. I have a handful of favored plug-ins that I frequently return to, and several of them were rendered unnecessary by the supplied Studio One 3 plug-ins.
I was consistently pleased with what I heard coming out of my speakers, whether it was a multi-layer synth patch or simple channel strip. Thankfully, it's not just quantity that the libraries offer-their quality is also top-notch. The libraries bundled with Studio One 3 Professional just keep going: 14 GB of instruments, 40 effects, presets, samples, impulse responses, loops. Most serious users are going to go with the Pro version, as that's where the real value lies.
Studio One 3 is available in three version: a freebie to get your feet wet, an Artist version with most features, and a Pro version with all the goodies. The culmination of their most-recent efforts-Studio One 3-was released in June. These talented folks started from scratch nearly 10 years ago to create the most powerful, flexible audio production software they could. The folks behind Studio One are the folks behind Cubase, Nuendo, Kristal, VST 3 and other core audio technologies you've likely heard of (or used).
When PreSonus decided it was time to make a splash in the digital audio production realm with their Studio One software, they went all-in and hired and acquired some of the best code and minds out there. From the introduction of their first analog compressor about 20 years ago, PreSonus has been a company known for their innovative ideas and no-compromise approach.